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Chero Archers: Jharkhand archery team pays tribute to legendary warrior clan

History of Cheros

The Cheros were a prominent warrior community from the medieval period, primarily in present-day Jharkhand, Bihar, and Uttar Pradesh, known for their martial prowess and resistance against imperial and colonial powers. They rose after the Pala Empire's fall, with their most powerful kingdom centered in Palamau. Notable leaders like Medini Rai led their defiant stand against the Mughals, and later Chero leaders such as Nilamber and Pitamber fought against the British. The Chero people continue to be a symbol of tribal identity, valued for their courage and heritage. 

Significance of Chero warrior

• Emergence as a Regional Power: The Chero rule was concentrated in area of Palamu (Jharkhand), Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. They Capitalized on the trade routes passing through the Gangetic plains and forested areas, collecting tolls and strengthening economy.

• Resistance to Mughal Expansion: The Cheros, under leaders like Raja Medini Rai, strongly resisted Mughal attempts to annex Palamu. Palamu Forts were attacked multiple times by Mughals, including Daud Khan, but the Cheros mounted effective resistance.
• Architectural History: Constructed the Old and New Palamu Forts (near Daltonganj, Jharkhand), showcasing tribal military architecture. These forts stand as symbols of tribal sovereignty and have archaeological and tourist importance today.

• Advantageous Location: Controlled vital routes through the Chotanagpur plateau, connecting Bihar, Bengal, and Central India. Dominated forests, rivers, and plateaus — rich in natural resources.

• Promotes local tribal customs.

Decline of Chero Rule

• Repeated attacks by the Mughals under generals like Daud Khan in the late 17th century weakened the Cheros.

• After the death of powerful rulers like Medini Rai, the dynasty suffered from internal divisions, weakening its political stability. 

• By the 18th century, the East India Company began asserting control over resource-rich tribal regions. In 1771, the British defeated the last major Chero ruler, ending their effective sovereignty in Palamu. British policies, revenue demands, and military campaigns further marginalized the Cheros. 

• Cheros lost access to forests, minerals, and fertile lands due to:
• Colonial forest policies
• Land alienation
• Rise of zamindars under British rule

Significance of Archery

• Traditional importance: Archery equipment like bows (dhanu) and arrows (baan) are handcrafted from local bamboo, wood, and iron. Passed down through generations, showcasing tribal skills in woodwork and metallurgy.
• Provides Identity: Seen as a symbol of tribal pride, courage, and self-reliance. Archery competitions are organized during local festivals and community gatherings, especially in rural and forested regions.
• Coming of International Player: Jharkhand has produced several national and international archers, especially from tribal backgrounds: Deepika Kumari – former world No. 1 in women’s recurve archery Atanu Das, Komalika Bari, and others trained at Tata Archery Academy (Jamshedpur)

Challenges in Archery:

• Lack of infrastructure
• Lack of financial support
• Traditional equipment and low coaching access
• Cultural dilution as traditional archery declines due to urbanization

World Tittle in Archery:

• In 2023 Berlin World Archery Championships witnessed a historic moment as the Indian women's compound team clinched the gold medal by defeating Mexico in the final. Jyothi Surekha Vennam, Aditi Gopichand Swami and Parneet Kaur became the first Indian women's compound team to win the world title.

World Archery Championships:

• The World Archery Championships event is organized by the World Archery Federation (WA). It was first organized in 1931.
• The championships consist of three main categories: Outdoor World Championships in target archery, Indoor World Championships in target archery, and World Championships in field archery.
• While the focus is often on these main categories, the World Archery Championships also include lesser-known but equally important disciplines. These include Youth Archery, Para-Archery, University Archery, and 3D Archery.
• World Archery Championships 2023 was held in Berlin, Germany.

Conclusion

The Chero Dynasty is important and a rare example of tribal political power in medieval India but also as a symbol of resistance, autonomy, and regional heritage. Their forts, history of defiance, and cultural legacy make them significant in both tribal and national history. 

Source: Indian Express and IAS Gyan